How did you get started?: I was contacted by District Manager, Terry Burke. Terry explained to me and my wife, Jackie, the benefits of agency ownership with Farmers Insurance. We were sold on the idea and from there I had to pass four separate licensing exams and then learn the Farmers system. After that I was open for business and ready to help as many folks as possible!

Successes (best part): There are two aspects that I enjoy the most. First is the opportunity to help people. TV advertising would lead you to believe that all insurance is just about the same thing and that price is all that matters but that really isn’t the case. I’ve had the opportunity to explain to people what all those numbers really mean, I get the customer involved and hold them accountable for their insurance decision which allows us to take the next step: helping them better protect their family. The flexibility is great as well. As a new father I am grateful for the opportunity to make my own hours which allows me to always put my family first.

Challenges: Starting this business from nothing has been very tough! You can’t give out coupons or samples of insurance to bring people in the doors! You have to meet a lot of people and build a solid relationship before the opportunity to sell them insurance arises. When people aren’t just flocking to your business the days can get very long. It’s a brand new experience to be the one who decides what gets done every day. After 24 years of having parents, teachers, bosses, and coaches assign tasks for you it’s easy to get comfortable with someone else planning out part of your day for you. Trying to fill your calendar up by yourself can get pretty daunting!

Advice for other YPs: Read a lot and talk with others who have been where you are now. You’ll make plenty of mistakes no matter what you do; having guidance to help you avoid at least a few of them is priceless!